Reduction or Guidance Coping

ABSTRACT

A computer-implemented method of generating a reduction coping includes receiving a digital model comprising a virtual preparation tooth, determining one or more virtual reduction regions on the virtual preparation tooth, and generating a virtual reduction coping comprising one or more exposed regions corresponding to the one or more virtual reduction regions. A method of generating a physical reduction coping includes receiving a 3D digital model of a virtual reduction coping and performing additive manufacturing to generate a physical reduction coping from the virtual reduction coping.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/918,586, filed Jul. 1, 2020, which claims priority to and the benefitof U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/869,331, filed Jul. 1,2019, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Conventional techniques for fitting a patient with a restorationtypically involve a dentist first assessing a patient's dentition anddetermining a preparation tooth on which the restoration will bepositioned. The dentist then prepares the preparation tooth by reducingits size to make space for the restoration. The dentist then takes animpression of the teeth with the preparation tooth. The impression canbe made by using an impression mold or intraoral scanning, for example.The dentist then sends the impression to a dental laboratory, whichcreates a stone model of the patient's dentition to use in designing thecrown. In many cases, the dental laboratory uses a guide to determinethere is insufficient occlusal clearance because the dentist has notremoved enough of the preparation tooth to provide enough space betweenthe affixed crown and the surrounding teeth, such as the opposing tooth.In such cases, the dental technician creates a reduction coping.

A reduction coping is a tool created by a dental laboratory to removeadditional material from a prepared tooth when the initial preparationdid not allow enough occlusal space. Conventionally, these are producedby the technician who makes a coping over the preparation tooth of thestone model and then grinds away the stone model material to providesufficient occlusal space so that the dental laboratory can manufacturethe crown to fall within required minimum thickness guidelines. Thecoping then has a hole that shows the doctor where material should beremoved from the prep. The coping itself is conventionally thermoformedor hand waxed. The reduction coping allows the dentist to adjust theprep and deliver the crown without sending another impression back tothe lab. A guidance coping performs a similar function and is made inthe same way but is to correct draw or path of insertion problems with apreparation instead of insufficient occlusal space.

If the lab receives an intraoral scan or scans the impression instead ofmaking a stone model, there is no way of reducing the preparation and nophysical model to thermoform or wax the coping. The only option would beto print a physical model from the scan and then modify it by handbefore scanning it again. This can be inefficient and can introducedimensional errors.

When producing a coping in a high volume production environment whereseveral different patients copings can be produced together, it can bechallenging and error prone to identify each one.

Another problem with reduction copings can be that they are very smalland difficult to handle and often need to be taken in and out of thepatients mouth many times during the reduction process.

SUMMARY

Disclosed is a computer-implemented method of generating a reductioncoping. The method can include receiving a digital model comprising avirtual preparation tooth, determining one or more virtual reductionregions on the virtual preparation tooth, and generating a virtualreduction coping comprising one or more exposed regions corresponding tothe one or more virtual reduction regions.

Also disclosed is a method of generating a physical reduction coping.The method can include receiving a 3D digital model of a virtualreduction coping and performing additive manufacturing to generate aphysical reduction coping from the virtual reduction coping.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual preparation tooth, a virtual opposing tooth, and surroundingdentition provided by a dental design program according to someembodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual preparation tooth and one or more virtual preparation toothreduction areas provided by a dental design program according to someembodiments.

FIG. 3 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual preparation tooth and a reduction region boundary provided by adental design program according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual preparation tooth and an adjusted reduction region boundaryprovided by a dental design program according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a 2D cross section illustration of a portion of a 3Ddigital model of dentition showing an undercut.

FIG. 6 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual preparation tooth with an open margin provided by a dentaldesign program according to some embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual preparation tooth with an open margin as viewed along anocclusion axis.

FIG. 8 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual preparation tooth with an open margin provided by a dentaldesign program according to some embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual preparation tooth with an open margin that has been closedprovided by a dental design program according to some embodiments.

FIG. 10 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual guidance/reduction coping provided by a dental design programaccording to some embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates a graphic representation of a GUI element providedby a dental design program according to some embodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual guidance/reduction coping and an illustration of a handleprovided by a dental design program according to some embodiments.

FIG. 13 illustrates a graphic representation of a digital model with avirtual guidance/reduction coping provided by a dental design programaccording to some embodiments.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a physical reduction/guidance coping inwith a handle in some embodiments.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of a physical reduction/guidance coping inwith a handle in some embodiments.

FIG. 16 is a diagram of a system in some embodiments.

FIGS. 17(a) and 17(b) are flow charts illustrating examples of methodsin some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For purposes of this description, certain aspects, advantages, and novelfeatures of the embodiments of this disclosure are described herein. Thedisclosed methods, apparatus, and systems should not be construed asbeing limiting in any way. Instead, the present disclosure is directedtoward all novel and nonobvious features and aspects of the variousdisclosed embodiments, alone and in various combinations andsub-combinations with one another. The methods, apparatus, and systemsare not limited to any specific aspect or feature or combinationthereof, nor do the disclosed embodiments require that any one or morespecific advantages be present or problems be solved.

Although the operations of some of the disclosed embodiments aredescribed in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation,it should be understood that this manner of description encompassesrearrangement, unless a particular ordering is required by specificlanguage set forth below. For example, operations described sequentiallymay in some cases be rearranged or performed concurrently. Moreover, forthe sake of simplicity, the attached figures may not show the variousways in which the disclosed methods can be used in conjunction withother methods. Additionally, the description sometimes uses terms like“provide” or “achieve” to describe the disclosed methods. The actualoperations that correspond to these terms may vary depending on theparticular implementation and are readily discernible by one of ordinaryskill in the art.

As used in this application and in the claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include the plural forms unless the context clearlydictates otherwise. Additionally, the term “includes” means “comprises.”Further, the terms “coupled” and “associated” generally meanelectrically, electromagnetically, and/or physically (e.g., mechanicallyor chemically) coupled or linked and does not exclude the presence ofintermediate elements between the coupled or associated items absentspecific contrary language.

In some examples, values, procedures, or apparatus may be referred to as“lowest,” “best,” “minimum,” or the like. It will be appreciated thatsuch descriptions are intended to indicate that a selection among manyalternatives can be made, and such selections need not be better,smaller, or otherwise preferable to other selections.

In the following description, certain terms may be used such as “up,”“down,” “upper,” “lower,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “left,” “right,” andthe like. These terms are used, where applicable, to provide someclarity of description when dealing with relative relationships. But,these terms are not intended to imply absolute relationships, positions,and/or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an “upper”surface can become a “lower” surface simply by turning the object over.Nevertheless, it is still the same object. The Figures (FIGS.) and thefollowing description describe certain embodiments by way ofillustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize fromthe following description that alternative embodiments of the structuresand methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing fromthe principles described herein.

Some embodiments include a computer-implemented method of generating areduction coping. The computer-implemented method can include, forexample, receiving a 3D digital model with a virtual preparation tooth,determining one or more virtual reduction regions on the virtualpreparation tooth, and generating a virtual reduction coping with one ormore exposed regions corresponding to the one or more virtual reductionregions. In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method receives adigital model of a dental impression. The digital dental impression canbe from an intraoral scan of a patient's dentition or from a CT scan ofa physical dental impression.

Exemplary embodiments of methods and systems for generating a virtualand/or physical guidance/reduction coping are described herein. Thecomputer-implemented methods of generating a virtual and/or physicalguidance/reduction coping described herein can use a digital model of atleast a portion of a patient's oral situation as a starting point forthe process. FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a digital model 101 thatcan be used. The digital model 101 can be generated by scanning aphysical impression using any scanning technique known in the artincluding, but not limited to, for example, optical scanning, CTscanning, etc. or by intraoral scanning of the patient's mouth(dentition). A conventional scanner typically captures the shape of thephysical impression/patient's dentition in 3 dimensions during a scanand digitizes the shape into a 3 dimensional digital model. The digitalmodel 101 can include multiple interconnected polygons in a topologythat corresponds to the shape of the physical impression/patient'sdentition, for example. In some embodiments, the polygons can includetwo or more digital triangles. In some embodiments, the scanning processcan produce STL, PLY, or CTM files, for example that can be suitable foruse with a dental design software, such as FastDesign™ dental designsoftware provided by Glidewell Laboratories of Newport Beach, Calif. Oneexample of CT scanning is described in U.S. Patent Application No.US20180132982A1 to Nikolskiy et al., which is hereby incorporated in itsentirety by reference.

The digital model 101 can also be generated by intraoral scanning of thepatient's dentition, for example. In some embodiments, an electronicimage is obtained by a direct intraoral scan of the patient's teeth.This will typically take place, for example, in a dental office orclinic and be performed by a dentist or dental technician. In otherembodiments, the electronic image is obtained indirectly by scanning animpression of the patient's teeth, by scanning a physical model of thepatient's teeth, or by other methods known to those skilled in the art.This will typically take place, for example, in a dental laboratory andbe performed by a laboratory technician. Accordingly, the methodsdescribed herein are suitable and applicable for use in chair side,dental laboratory, or other environments.

In one embodiment, a plurality of scans (e.g., 3-5 scans per quadrant)is performed in order to obtain a suitable image of the patient'sanatomy. For example, an occlusal, lingual, and buccal scan may be takenof both the preparation and the opposing jaws. Then, a single scan withthe jaws in occlusion may be taken from the buccal perspective toestablish the proper occlusion relationship between the preparation jawand the opposing jaw. Additionally, in some embodiments, interproximalscans are added to capture the contact areas of neighboring teeth. Oncethe scanning process is completed, a scanning system (not shown in FIGS)can assemble the plurality of scans into a digital model (also referredto as a “scanned model” or “scanned dental model” herein) of thepreparation tooth and its surrounding and opposing teeth. The scannedmodel can be used to design and generate a guidance/reduction coping tobe used on the preparation tooth. For example, a dental design programmay process and display the scanned model in a user interface on a userdevice. A user (e.g., a design technician) operating on the user devicecan view the scanned dental model and generate a guidance/reductioncoping based on the scanned model.

The computer-implemented method can receive the digital model 101 havingone or more virtual preparation teeth. The virtual preparation teeth canbe prepared, for example, by a user such as a dentist or dentaltechnician, for example using dental design software such as FastDesign™or other design software known in the art in some embodiments. In someembodiments, the computer-implemented method can receive the digitalmodel 101 that can include a first virtual prepared tooth 100 and itscorresponding margin line, virtual preparation tooth margin 106, forexample. The virtual preparation tooth margin 106 can be determinedusing any technique known in the art. For example, in some embodiments,a technician (user) can manually mark the margin line using an inputdevice such as a mouse or touch screen while viewing the digital model101 on a display. Another technique to determine virtual preparationteeth and their corresponding margin line is described in, for example,Computer-aided Framework Design for Digital Dentistry by Hong-Tzong Yau,Chien-Yu Hsu, Hui-Lang Peng and Chih-Chuan Pai in Computer-Aided Design& Applications, 5 (5), 2008, 667-675, the entirety of which is herebyincorporated by reference. Other techniques known in the art to specifydigital preparation teeth and their corresponding margin line can beused.

More or fewer virtual preparation teeth can be present in the digitalmodel 101 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, at least one virtualtooth can be prepared to receive a dental restoration. In someembodiments, the dental restoration can be a crown, for example or otherrestoration.

FIG. 1 illustrates a digital model 101 of a dental impression that isdisplayed to a user through a graphical user interface (“GUI”). Thedigital model 101 contains at least one virtual preparation tooth 100and can include surrounding dental features such as additionalsurrounding virtual teeth, for example. Other dental features can alsobe present. As shown in FIG. 1, the additional surrounding virtual teethcan include at least one virtual opposing tooth 104 on a virtualopposing jaw.

In some embodiments, the virtual preparation tooth 100 is a digitizedversion of a physical a tooth that has already been prepared to receivea physical restoration such as a crown, for example, or otherrestorations. Thus, in some embodiments, the virtual preparation tooth100 is typically smaller in size and shaped to have a smooth virtualocclusion surface compared to the surrounding virtual teeth.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method digitally canreduce the virtual preparation tooth to address clearance issues. Insome embodiments, this can help automate processing which is donemanually with physical models, for example. For example, in some cases,the virtual preparation tooth can be reduced when the opposing cannot bereduced, the patient does not want the opposing reduced, or the opposingtooth has already been reduced too much and cannot go any further, orfor any other situation/reason.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method performs a virtualpreparation tooth reduction. In some embodiments, this can be similar tospot opposing, but can reduce the die on the virtual preparation tooth,for example. In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method canautomatically identify the area where there is not enough clearance, forexample. The computer-implemented method can automatically reduce thearea on the virtual preparation tooth 100 to resolve the clearanceissue. After reduction, the area can be left with a smooth surface. Insome embodiments, screenshots can be automatically generated before andafter the reduction, for example. The computer-implemented method can besaved and may be used in analysis.

In some embodiments, a design of a guidance/reduction coping generatedfrom dental CAD software with integrated handle and unique identifierthat has been optimized for 3d printing is disclosed. In someembodiments, a virtual reduction coping can be designed in CAD after thevirtual margin is marked but before the dental restoration itself isdesigned, for example. These can essentially create a boolean operationto remove this volume from the virtual preparation tooth, for example.In some embodiments, a virtual reduction coping can then be designed asan offset of the original virtual preparation tooth surface thatremains. For example, a first offset to create some clearance and thenan additional offset that defines the thickness of the coping in therange 0.3 mm-1 mm. In some embodiments, the dental restoration such as acrown for example can be designed and an output file for 3D printing canbe generated, for example.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can automaticallyand virtually determine one or more virtual reduction regions. In someembodiments, the one or more virtual reduction regions can be on thevirtual preparation tooth, for example. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method can determine one or more necessary virtualreduction regions by detecting an insufficient clearance between one ormore surfaces of the virtual preparation tooth 100 and one or more otherdental features. For example, in some embodiments, the insufficientclearance can be an insufficient occlusal clearance 120 between anocclusal surface of the virtual preparation tooth 100 and an occlusalsurface of a virtual opposing tooth 104. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method can determine one or more necessary virtualreduction regions due to an insufficient path of insertion between oneor more side surface regions of the virtual preparation tooth 100 andthe virtual preparation tooth margin boundary 106, for example.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method determines aninsufficient occlusal clearance by determining a minimum requiredocclusal clearance between the occlusal surface of the virtualpreparation tooth 100 and the virtual opposing tooth 104. Thecomputer-implemented method can determine the minimum required occlusalclearance based on several factors. In some embodiments, the minimumrequired occlusal clearance can be a minimum restoration thickness. Insome embodiments, the computer-implemented method determines the minimumrestoration thickness based on a restoration type selected. Restorationscan be made of different materials. The material used for a particularrestoration can influence the minimum restoration thickness. Forexample, restorations such as crowns can require a minimum thickness.The computer-implemented method can in some embodiments receive therestoration type and determine a required minimum restoration thicknessbased on the type of restoration. The computer-implemented method canobtain the required minimum restoration thickness automatically or froma user selection of the minimum restoration thickness. In someembodiments, the minimum required occlusal clearance can be based on theminimum restoration thickness and an adhesive thickness. For example,the minimum required occlusal clearance can be the sum of the minimumrestoration thickness and the adhesive thickness. The adhesive can be,for example, cement, and can be arranged on the preparation tooth toattach the restoration. In some embodiments, any additional layers ofmaterial between the preparation tooth and the restoration cancontribute to the minimum required occlusal clearance. For example,additional layer thickness requirements/values can be added to theminimum restoration thickness and the adhesive thickness to determinethe minimum required occlusal clearance. In some embodiments, theminimum required occlusal clearance can be determined by parameters ofminimum occlusal clearance, cement gap, material thickness and path ofinsertion to ensure sufficient draft to seat the restoration.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method detects aninsufficient virtual occlusal clearance 120 by determining a virtualocclusal clearance 121 between one or more virtual preparation toothocclusal surfaces and one or more virtual opposing tooth occlusalsurfaces is less than the minimum required occlusal clearance. In someembodiments, the computer-implemented method determines the virtualocclusal clearance when a virtual jaw is closed or clenched, or when thevirtual preparation tooth 100 and virtual opposing tooth 104 are closestto each other. The computer-implemented method in this way can determinethat a height of the virtual preparation tooth 100 and a height of thevirtual opposing tooth 104 are too large to accommodate therestoration's minimum restoration thickness between them when the jaw isclosed or clenched.

To accommodate the restoration between the virtual preparation tooth 100and the virtual opposing tooth 104, the computer-implemented method candetermine a total virtual reduction amount necessary to satisfy theminimum required occlusal clearance. The computer-implemented method candisplay the total virtual reduction amount on a GUI to illustrate thetotal reduction necessary. In some embodiments, the total virtualreduction amount is a difference between the virtual occlusal clearanceand the minimum required occlusal clearance, for example. In someembodiments, the computer-implemented method can determine a defaultvirtual reduction value. In some embodiments, the computer-implementedmethod can determine a default distribution 128 of the default virtualreduction amount between the virtual preparation tooth 100 and thevirtual opposing tooth 104. For example, in some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented program can determine a virtual preparation toothreduction amount 126 and a virtual opposing tooth reduction amount 122,the sum of which is the total virtual reduction amount 132. In someembodiments, the total virtual reduction amount can be adjusted by auser via a graphical user interface element such as the input field. Insome embodiments the computer-implemented method can display to the usera graphical user interface element such as slider bar 130 shown in FIG.1 to adjust the distribution of the total virtual reduction amount 132between the virtual preparation tooth reduction amount 126 and thevirtual opposing tooth reduction amount 122. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method initially (by default) distributes more ormost of the total virtual reduction amount to the virtual opposing toothreduction amount 122. In some embodiments, if the total virtualreduction amount 132 meets or exceeds a confirmation limit 131, then thecase can be flagged for follow up and confirmation with the dentist andthe computer-implemented method does not process the case further. Theconfirmation limit 131 can also be displayed to the user through a GUIelement, as can all other values as depicted in the figures. In someembodiments, if the virtual opposing tooth reduction amount 122 meets orexceeds a confirmation limit 131, then the case can be flagged forfollow up and confirmation with the dentist and the computer-implementedmethod does not process the case further. In some embodiments, theconfirmation limit can be 0.5 mm, for example. The confirmation limit131 can be a user configurable value that can be stored in aconfiguration file which the computer-implemented method can load, forexample. Once confirmation is received, a user can release the hold andallow the case to further process. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method displays information on a GUI as illustratedin FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, thereby allowing a dental technician/user to takea screenshot of the clearance issue with parameters shown by color mapand distance number. In some embodiments, this information can be usedin a call the doctor if nothing is stated in the prescription, forexample. In some embodiments, the screenshot can be shipped with thecase back to the doctor, for example. In some embodiments, if a call isneeded, the computer-implemented method can designate the case to be onHOLD in a work queue, for example. If a call is not needed, then no HOLDis designated for the case, and work can proceed in some embodiments,for example. In some embodiments, once the lab receives confirmationfrom the doctor, the computer-implemented method can reopen the case andpopulate to the queue to perform the reduction, and the technician/usercan trigger the reduction in some embodiments, for example.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can determine oneor more virtual preparation tooth reduction regions on the virtualpreparation tooth. In some embodiments, the computer-implemented methodcan determine one or more virtual preparation tooth reduction regions asvirtual preparation tooth occlusal surface regions where the occlusalclearance is less than the minimum required occlusal clearance. In someembodiments, the computer-implemented method can determine one or morevirtual opposing tooth reduction regions as virtual opposing toothocclusal surface regions where the occlusal clearance is less than theminimum required occlusal clearance. In some embodiments, the totalreduction amount can be the difference between the occlusal clearanceand the minimum required occlusal clearance. In the example of FIG. 1,the computer-implemented method can analyze the digital dentalimpression/model and can detect, for example, the occlusal clearance121. As illustrated in the example in FIG. 1, the occlusal clearance 121may be very minimal at 0.02 mm. Since the material min. occlusalthickness required is 0.60 mm in the example figure, thecomputer-implemented method can determine the total virtual reductionrequirement 132 to be 0.58 mm, for example. In some embodiments, theuser/technician has the option to select the desired amount of reductionto be made to both the virtual opposing tooth and virtual preparationtooth by using slider bar 130, for example. In some embodiments, oncethe desired amount is selected, the user can press the “PerformReduction” button, for example.

As shown in the example of FIG. 2, before the user performs thereduction, the computer-implemented method can display a distancecoloring map, for example. The distance coloring map can be selected todisplay by the user using, for example, a distance coloring map checkbox 204 in some embodiments. The user can utilize this color map toclearly see the affected area. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method can display the one or more virtualpreparation tooth reduction regions on a display. For example, FIG. 2illustrates a virtual preparation tooth reduction region 206 on thevirtual preparation tooth occlusal surface. The computer-implementedmethod can provide a graphical user interface element to allow a user toadjust the one or more virtual preparation tooth reduction regions 202.

As illustrated in example FIG. 3, a reduction region boundary 504 can bealtered by a user by accessing handle points 506 a and 506 b on thereduction region boundary 504 to change the virtual preparation toothreduction region 502. (Or a virtual opposing tooth reduction region). Insome embodiments, the computer-implemented method can also display theone or more virtual opposing tooth reduction regions to the user. Insome embodiments, the virtual preparation tooth and opposing toothreduction regions are displayed in color.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example whereby the user has moved the reductionregion boundary 504 from FIG. 3 to a new reduction region boundary 510with new reduction regions 514 and 516 and new handle points 512, forexample. In. this example, the new regions will expand the originalreduction region 508.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can perform avirtual reduction of the virtual preparation tooth reduction regions bythe virtual preparation tooth reduction amount. In some embodiments, thevirtual reduction can be initiated by the user selecting a GUI elementsuch as a perform reduction button 124 as shown in FIG. 1. Thecomputer-implemented method can reduce the virtual preparation toothreduction regions to produce an even, smooth, and level one or morevirtual reduced regions that can blend with surrounding virtual regions.In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can perform thevirtual reduction of the virtual opposing tooth. In some embodiments,the computer-implemented method can perform the virtual reduction inresponse to a command by the user. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method performs the virtual reduction byeliminating the virtual reduction regions by the virtual reductionamount. In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method cangenerate screenshots that can provide information such as color mapsillustrating virtual preparation tooth reduction regions and virtualopposing tooth reduction regions, for example. Additional parameters canalso be included in the screenshots in some embodiments, for example.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can determine oneor more necessary virtual reduction regions due to an insufficientvirtual path of insertion. In some embodiments, the virtual preparationtooth 100 can include a preparation tooth virtual margin 503 as shown inFIG. 4. In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method virtuallydie-trims a virtual margin 503 around the virtual preparation tooth 500.This can include, for example, the computer-implemented methodautomatically determining a virtual preparation tooth margin 503 aroundthe virtual preparation tooth 500 and/or a user marking the marginmanually using an input device as is known in the art. In someembodiments, the virtual preparation tooth margin 503 can be displayedin a graphical user interface to the user as shown in FIG. 4.

As illustrated in the example 600 of FIG. 5, in some embodiments, thepath of insertion is a path the dentist will use to seat a restoration604 on the margin. FIG. 5 shows a 2D cross-section illustration of aportion of a 3D digital model of a patient's dentition. In someembodiments, an initial or default virtual path of insertion 602 can bealong an occlusal direction, for example. However, other virtual pathsof insertion 606 are possible. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method sets a default path of insertion that is anoptimal path of insertion to minimize undercuts 611. An undercut 611 cancause one or more virtual preparation tooth side surface regions 608 ofthe virtual preparation tooth 613 to block the margin when viewed fromthe path of insertion 602 or 606, for example. This can causerestoration seating issues since the restoration in some embodiments canbe arranged to maximally connect to the margin, for example. If anyportion of the virtual margin is blocked along the path of insertion byone or more virtual preparation tooth side surface regions, then thecomputer-implemented method can determine that a virtual open marginexists.

FIGS. 6-8 illustrate an example of a virtual open margin. FIG. 6illustrates a path of insertion 702 having a virtual margin 706. Due tothe virtual preparation tooth side surface region 710, the virtualpreparation tooth has an open virtual margin 708. Thecomputer-implemented method can in some embodiments automaticallydetermine a virtual preparation sidewall reduction value 704 (alsocalled an undercut value). The computer-implemented method can determinethis value, for example, by determining how much of the sidewall iscausing the open virtual margin 708 when viewed along the path ofinsertion 702.

FIG. 7 illustrates the same features viewed from the path of insertion702. As can be seen in the figure, virtual margin 706 is open due to thevirtual preparation tooth side surface region 710. As illustrated inFIGS. 7 and 8, in some embodiments, the computer-implemented methoddetermines one or more virtual preparation tooth reduction regions asvirtual preparation tooth side surface regions 710 that block thevirtual margin 706 when viewed from the point of insertion 702. Thecomputer-implemented method can determine the virtual preparation toothside surface reduction amount 704 necessary to close the open virtualmargin 708 from the point of insertion 702. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method can determine one or more virtualpreparation tooth side surface regions to reduce to close the margin. Insome embodiments, the virtual preparation tooth side surface regions toreduce are virtual preparation tooth reduction regions. In someembodiments, the computer-implemented method can perform a virtualundercut reduction to close the virtual margin. This can also bereferred to as reducing the virtual preparation tooth side surfaceregions.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method sets a defaultvirtual undercut reduction value and displays a GUI element 718 allowingthe user to change the virtual preparation tooth side region reductionamount (virtual undercut reduction value) and showing the open virtualmargin amount 714 as illustrated in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method provides a GUI element such as virtualbutton 716 to initiate the virtual reduction of the virtual preparationtooth side surface regions 710. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method allows the user to change the path ofinsertion. In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method providesa GUI element such as the arrow showing path of insertion 702 to allow auser to change or adjust the path of insertion.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 9, upon completion of removing theundercut, the virtual margin 718 is closed since the virtual preparationtooth side region no longer blocks the virtual margin 718 from the pathof insertion 702. This can provide an exposed undercut removed region784.

As shown in the example of FIG. 10, after the virtual reduction isperformed, the computer-implemented method can in some embodimentsautomatically generate a virtual reduction coping, for example. In someembodiments, the virtual reduction coping can be equipped with holes, orvirtual preparation tooth reduction regions, which will help the doctorto reduce the appropriate areas when the patient is chairside. In someembodiments, to enable visibility of the coping, the user selects “Showcopings” checkbox 306, for example.

As illustrated in the example FIG. 10, in some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method generates a virtual reduction coping 302dimensioned for optimized fit over the virtual preparation tooth 100without the adhesive layer. As illustrated in FIG. 10, virtual reductionregion 304 has been reduced on the virtual preparation tooth 100. Insome embodiments, the virtual reduction coping 302 includes virtualreduction coping material formed around the one or more virtualpreparation tooth reduction regions 304 bounded by virtual preparationtooth reduction region boundary 305, thereby generating one or morevirtual reduction coping exposed regions 307. The one or more virtualreduction coping exposed regions 307 correspond to the one or morevirtual preparation tooth reduction regions 304. For example, FIG. 10illustrates virtual reduction coping 302 with virtual reduction copingexposed regions 307. In some embodiments, the computer-implementedmethod can provide a GUI element such as a check box 306 to display thevirtual reduction coping 302.

In another embodiment, FIG. 11 illustrates an example of an interactiveGUI 1000 that can be presented on a display. The interactive GUI 1000can include GUI features such as input fields to adjust the bite and toadjust a reduction amount between a virtual preparation tooth and avirtual opposing tooth in some embodiments, for example. The GUI caninclude, for example, an occlusal adjustment input field 1002, a buccaladjustment input field 1004, and a mesial adjustment input field 1006.Upon entering adjustment values, a user can trigger a bite adjustment byselecting an adjust bite button 1008, for example, to trigger a biteadjustment in some embodiments. In some embodiments, an optimize bitebutton 1010 can be selected to automatically adjust the bite, forexample. In some embodiments, there may be times when both virtualopposing tooth and virtual preparation tooth reduction is needed, forexample. This can happen, in some cases with a severe clearance issue,for example. In some embodiments where too much cannot be reduced fromeither the virtual opposing tooth or the virtual preparation tooth, alittle can be taken from both, for example. In the illustration shown inFIG. 11, for example, the computer-implemented method can in someembodiments display a field to input parameters of how much to reducefrom the virtual opposing tooth and the virtual preparation tooth insome embodiments. For example, interactive GUI 1000 can include in someembodiments a spot virtual opposing tooth input field 1012 and a virtualpreparation reduction input field 1014. In some embodiments, in everydayuse these parameters can default to reduce the entire parameter toeither the virtual opposing tooth or the virtual preparation tooth, forexample. This can be done in some embodiments, for example, by a tech oruser selecting via an input device a spot virtual opposing button 1016or a virtual preparation tooth reduction button 1018. For example, ifcase A needs 0.2 mm more clearance, the tech can choose the spot virtualopposing button 1016 and the spot virtual opposing input field 1012 willautofill to 0.2 mm. If case B needs 0.3 mm more clearance, then the techcan choose the virtual preparation tooth reduction button 1018, and thevirtual preparation tooth reduction input field 1014 amount willautofill to 0.3 mm. If case C needs 0.9 mm more clearance, then the techcan enter or using arrows increase/decrease the virtual opposing toothinput field 1012 to 0.5 mm, and enter or using arrows increase/decreasethe virtual preparation tooth reduction input field 1014 to 0.4 mm. Ifvirtual preparation reduction is selected, the computer-implementedmethod can in some embodiments automatically generate a simple virtualcoping that will fit over the newly prepped die/preparation tooth. Insome embodiments, the computer-implemented method can use the sameconcept as simple virtual coping generation. The computer-implementedmethod can create a virtual guidance/coping after the virtualpreparation tooth has been reduced in some embodiments. Thecomputer-implemented method can create a hole (exposed region) in thevirtual reduction coping in some embodiments. In some embodiments, thehole can be the exact area that was reduced for more clearance, forexample. In some embodiments, the hole can be used as a visualidentifier for a doctor to know where to reduce the physical virtualpreparation tooth. In some embodiments, the virtual guidance/reductioncoping will not fit until enough virtual preparation tooth has beenreduced, for example. In some embodiments, STL can be output in MillingFolder, for example. This can be used to 3D Print to send to the doctorin some embodiments, for example. Screenshots can be made in someembodiments if the user selects a make screenshot button 1020, forexample, or can be auto-generated in some embodiments, for example.

FIG. 12 illustrates a generated virtual reduction coping 402 withvirtual reduction coping exposed region 404, for example. The virtualcoping exposed region 404 can correspond to virtual preparation toothreduction regions to address virtual occlusal clearance issues and pointof insertion issues.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 13, virtual reduction coping 702includes a first virtual reduction coping exposed region 780 and asecond virtual reduction coping exposed region 782. The first virtualreduction coping exposed region 780 can correspond to a virtualpreparation tooth reduction region related to an insufficient clearanceand the second virtual reduction coping exposed region 782 cancorrespond to a virtual preparation tooth reduction region related to aninsufficient path of insertion. A single virtual reduction coping canthus account for all necessary virtual reduction regions, whether froman insufficient clearance between one or more surfaces of the virtualpreparation tooth and one or more opposing dental features, or whetherfrom detecting an insufficient path of insertion. The single virtualreduction coping can thus provide all of the reduction regions necessaryin some embodiments for a physical preparation tooth to receive arestoration, for example.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can generate avirtual handle connected with the virtual reduction coping. FIG. 12illustrates an example of a virtual handle 405 connected to the virtualreduction coping 402 and having one or more virtual identifier regions407. Also illustrated is an optional virtual barcode region 412 and anoptional virtual data matrix 414. FIG. 12 is for illustration purposesonly. The virtual handle 405, one or more virtual identifier regions407, virtual barcode region 412, and virtual data matrix 414 may not bedisplayed to the user in some embodiments, for example, and can beautomatically generated without being displayed. The virtual handle 405may be automatically generated when a user selects generating thephysical reduction coping from the virtual reduction coping 402, forexample. In some embodiments, the user selecting 3D printing the virtualreduction coping 402 can trigger the computer-implemented method toautomatically generate virtual handle 405. In some embodiments, thevirtual handle can optionally include one or more virtual identifierregions 407. In some embodiments, the virtual handle 405 can beintegrally connected to the virtual reduction/guidance coping 402. Insome embodiments, the computer-implemented method auto generates a casenumber tag and integrates the case number into the virtual handle 405,for example, in the one or more virtual identifier regions 407. In someembodiments, the computer-implemented method arranges the virtual handle405 location on the virtual reduction coping by avoiding virtualreduction coping exposed regions. For posterior virtual preparationteeth, the virtual handle 405 can be arranged to be on the lingual side.For anterior virtual preparation teeth, the virtual handle 405 can bearranged on the facial side.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can generate anoutput file readable by an additive manufacturing process to generate aphysical reduction coping with a physical handle from the virtualreduction coping and the virtual handle. The guidance coping can begenerated as a water-tight PLY file, which can be 3D printable via aresin or metal based printers. In some embodiments, this can refer toprocesses by which digital three-dimensional (3D) design data is used tobuild up a component in layers by depositing material. In someembodiments, several additive manufacturing processes suitable formanufacturing articles can include many polymeric, ceramic, resin,metal, and composite materials, for example. In some embodiments, thematerial for the reduction coping and optional handle and optionalbarcode region can be any material suitable for intraoral use, includingbut not limited to FDA-approved materials for intraoral use.

In some embodiments, additive manufacturing processes can fall intoseveral example categories, including but not limited to vatphotopolymerisation, material jetting, binder jetting, materialextrusion (e.g., fuse deposition modelling (FDM)), powder bed fusion(e.g., direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), electron beam melting (EBM),selective heat sintering (SHS), selective laser melting (SLM), andselective laser sintering (SLS)), sheet lamination (e.g., ultrasonicadditive manufacturing (UAM) and laminated object manufacturing (LOM)),directed energy deposition, and stereolithography, for example. Otheradditive manufacturing processes are also contemplated.

For example, in some embodiments, the computer-implemented method cangenerate a STL or PLY file readable by the additive manufacturingprocess. In some embodiments, an identifier can be integrated with thephysical handle made out of the same material as the physical reductioncoping and the physical handle. The size of the physical handle candepend on the size of the identifier, in some embodiments. In someembodiments, the virtual reduction coping and virtual handle can begenerated into the physical reduction coping and physical handle by theadditive manufacturing process together to form a single, integralphysical unit. In some embodiments, the additive manufacturing processcan utilize metal or resin for the reduction coping/handle. In someembodiments, the material for the physical reduction coping and optionalphysical handle can be any material suitable for intraoral use,including but not limited to FDA-approved materials for intraoral use.In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can generate thephysical reduction coping and optional handle and optional identifierregion(s) using an additive manufacturing process. Any additivemanufacturing process can be used.

One example of an additive manufacturing process in some embodiments caninclude 3D printing. In some embodiments, the computer-implementedmethod can generate an output file readable by a 3D printer to 3D printthe virtual reduction coping and virtual handle and virtual identifierregion(s) into the physical reduction coping and connected physicalhandle, for example. In some embodiments, the 3D printer can utilizemetal or resin material for the physical reduction coping, optionalphysical handle, and optional identifier region(s). Other types ofadditive processes known in the art can also be used.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can generate anoutput file readable by a 3D printer to 3D print the virtual reductioncoping and virtual handle into the physical reduction coping andconnected physical handle.

In some embodiments, the computer-implemented method can automaticallygenerate a physical handle 901 that is large enough to contain physicalidentifier 902 to identify the case as illustrated in FIG. 14. Anexample of a physical coping with a physical handle and physicalidentifier 902 is illustrated in FIG. 14. The physical identifier 902can include any alphanumeric and/or symbolic characters and can be inany language.

In some embodiments, the physical handle 901 should point facial orlabial in design so it is oriented to point out of the patients mouthwhen in use so as to accomplish its secondary function, for example.FIG. 14 illustrates the physical handle 901 having the handle base 904with optional physical identifier region 902. In some embodiments, thebase 904 can be angled 912 up to the physical reduction coping 906. Thiscan minimize the number of one or more sprues 910 along the handle base904, for example. In some embodiments, the handle can also be adjustedto minimize the need for supports. In some embodiments, one or moresprues 910 can be a length that allows the guidance/reduction coping tosit flat on a surface, for example. In some embodiments, the sprues 910are removable, and can be removed prior to use by a dentist, forexample. As seen in FIG. 14, the flat surface of the handle is moved tothe minimum point in z to negate the need to support it as it is indirect contact with the base 904, for example. This is a secondarybenefit.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of an example of a physicalreduction/guidance coping 802 with one or more exposed regions 810having an optional physical handle 804 with an optional physicalidentifier 902 and/or an optional physical barcode region 806 with anoptional physical data matrix 805. In some embodiments, the physicalidentifier 902 could also be replaced with a barcode and the optionalphysical barcode region 806 modified to accommodate the data matrix 805as seen in FIG. 15, as an example. The data matrix 805 can optionally becomputer-readable. The physical barcode region 806 can be of anydimensions. One example in some embodiments the physical barcode region806 can be dimensioned to accommodate, for example, a 10×10 barcode, forexample. The physical data matrix 805 and/or the physical identifier 902can be based on a case number and/or one or more identifying featuresthat can help track the physical guidance/reduction coping 802 in aproduction or other environment, for example. FIG. 15 illustrates anexample in some embodiments of the optional physical handle 804 attachedto the physical reduction coping 802. In some embodiments, the physicalreduction/guidance coping 802, optional physical handle 804, optionalphysical identifier 902, optional physical barcode region 806, and/oroptional physical data matrix 805 can be integrally formed and/orconnected together and/or made of the same material.

One or more of the features disclosed herein can be combined to formvarious embodiments. The terms reduction coping and guidance coping canbe used interchangeably and can refer to a reduction/guidance coping.

In some embodiments, one or more features herein can virtually reducethe virtual preparation tooth and design a virtual guidance/reductioncoping from the virtual model. When printing a physicalguidance/reduction coping in a high volume production environment whereseveral different patient copings are produced at once, it can bechallenging and error prone to identify each one. In some embodiments,one or more features disclosed herein can integrate an identifier wherea code corresponding to the case can be added which may be humanreadable or a bar/QR code or something similar. Another problem withreduction copings is that they are very small and difficult to handleand often need to be taken in and out of the patients mouth many timesduring the reduction process. In some embodiments, the space to add anidentifier also forms/serves as a handle for the doctor or others touse, for example.

FIG. 16 illustrates a digital impression processing system 14000 in someembodiments. The system 14000 can include a processor 14030,computer-readable storage medium 14034 having instructions executable bythe processor to perform steps including one or more features describedin the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the system 14000 canprovide at 14040 a reduction coping that can be virtual and/or physical,that can be with or without a handle (with or without one or moreidentifiers), and/or an output file for an additive manufacturingprocess to generate a physical reduction coping with or without aphysical handle (with or without one or more identifiers), for example.In some embodiments, the additive manufacturing process can include 3Dprinting. In some embodiments, an optional 3D printer can also be used.Other outputs are possible, and these are only provided as examples.Scanner 14028 is optional and shown only for illustration purposes as anexample. The scanner 14028 can be an optical and/or x-ray based CTscanning system, for example, and can generate the digital model 14014.

Some embodiments include a processing system for generating a reductioncoping. The system can include, for example, a processor, acomputer-readable storage medium including instructions executable bythe processor to perform steps including: receiving a digital modelcomprising a virtual preparation tooth, determining one or more virtualreduction regions on the virtual preparation tooth; and generating avirtual reduction coping comprising one or more exposed regionscorresponding to the one or more virtual reduction regions.

FIG. 16 illustrates a processing system 14000 in some embodiments. Thesystem 14000 can include a processor 14030, computer-readable storagemedium 14034 having instructions executable by the processor to performone or more steps described in the present disclosure. The digital modelcan optionally be provided by an optional scanner 14028, for example.The system 14000 can provide a guidance/reduction coping 14040. In someembodiments, the guidance/reduction coping 14040 can be a digital modelof the guidance/coping. In some embodiments, the guidance/reductioncoping 14040 can be suitable for use with an additive manufacturingprocess such as 3D printing to generate a physical guidance/reductioncoping.

FIG. 17(a) illustrates an example of a computer-implemented method ofgenerating a reduction coping. The computer-implemented method caninclude, for example, receiving a digital model comprising a virtualpreparation tooth at 1202, determining one or more virtual reductionregions on the virtual preparation tooth at 1204, and generating avirtual reduction coping comprising one or more exposed regionscorresponding to the one or more virtual reduction regions at 1206.

The method can include one or more of the following optional features insome embodiments, for example. For example, the method can furtherinclude generating a virtual handle affixed to the virtual reductioncoping. The method can further include generating a physical reductioncoping and physical handle from the virtual reduction coping and thevirtual handle. The virtual handle can include at least one identifierregion. Determining one or more necessary virtual reduction regions caninclude detecting an insufficient clearance between one or more surfacesof the virtual preparation tooth and one or more other dental features.The method can further include detecting an insufficient virtualocclusal clearance. Detecting an insufficient virtual occlusal clearancecan include determining that a virtual occlusal clearance between one ormore virtual preparation tooth occlusal surfaces and one or more virtualopposing tooth occlusal surfaces is less than a minimum requiredocclusal clearance. The minimum required occlusal clearance can includea minimum restoration thickness. The computer-implemented method candetermine the minimum restoration thickness automatically based on therestoration type selected. The minimum required occlusal clearance canfurther include an adhesive thickness. The method can further includedetermining a total virtual reduction amount necessary to satisfy theminimum required occlusal clearance. The total virtual reduction amountcan be a difference between the virtual occlusal clearance and theminimum required occlusal clearance. The method can further includedisplaying a GUI element to the user to allow adjusting a distributionof the total virtual reduction amount between a virtual preparationtooth reduction amount and a virtual opposing tooth reduction amount.The method can further include determining a virtual margin around thevirtual preparation tooth. Determining one or more necessary virtualreduction regions can include detecting an insufficient path ofinsertion between one or more side surface regions of the virtualpreparation tooth and the virtual margin boundary. The virtualpreparation tooth side surface regions to reduce can be part of thevirtual preparation tooth reduction regions. The method can furtherinclude virtually reducing the virtual preparation tooth reductionregions by the virtual preparation tooth reduction amount and virtuallyreducing the virtual preparation tooth side surface regions by thevirtual preparation tooth side surface reduction amount.

FIG. 17(b) illustrates a method of generating a physical reductioncoping. The method can include, for example, receiving a 3D digitalmodel of a virtual reduction coping at 1302 and performing additivemanufacturing to generate a physical reduction coping from the virtualreduction coping at 1304.

The method can include one or more features as disclosed herein,including but not limited to the following features in some embodiments.For example, performing additive manufacturing can include 3D printingthe physical reduction coping. The physical reduction coping can includean integrated physical handle. The integrated physical handle caninclude an identifier. The physical reduction coping can include one ormore exposed regions corresponding to one or more virtual preparationtooth reduction regions.

In some embodiments, generating a guidance/reduction coping can beinitiated by a user using one or more features disclosed herein, forexample. In some embodiments, generating a guidance/reduction caninclude one or more of the features described in the present disclosure.In some embodiments, generating a guidance/reduction coping can beperformed by a user using an input device while viewing the digitalmodel on a display, for example. In some embodiments, thecomputer-implemented method can allow the input device to manipulate thedigital model displayed on the display. For example, in someembodiments, the computer-implemented method can rotate, zoom, move,and/or otherwise manipulate the digital model in any way as is known inthe art. In some embodiments, generating a guidance/reduction can beperformed by a user using the input device. In some embodiments,generating a guidance/reduction can be initiated, for example, usingtechniques known in the art, such as a user selecting a button.

One or more features shown on a GUI can be selected using an inputdevice whose pointer is shown on a display for example. The pointer canbe used to select a region of one point by clicking on an input devicesuch as a mouse or tapping on a touch screen for example. A digitalsurface of multiple points can be selected by dragging the pointeracross a digital surface, in some embodiments, for example. Othertechniques known in the art can be used to select a point or digitalsurface. In some embodiments, can be performed by a user using an inputdevice and viewing the digital model a display, for example.

In some embodiments the computer-implemented method can display adigital model on a display and receive input from an input device suchas a mouse or touch screen on the display for example. Thecomputer-implemented method can, upon receiving an initiation command,generate a virtual and/or physical guidance/reduction coping with anoptional handle and an optional identifier using one or more featuresdescribed in the present disclosure. The computer-implemented methodcan, upon receiving manipulation commands, rotate, zoom, move, and/orotherwise manipulate the digital model in any way as is known in theart.

One advantage of one or more features of the present disclosure caninclude automatic generation of a 3D printable virtual reduction copingwith a handle having an optional identifier, for example. This can, forexample, provide a way to automate production of physicalreduction/guidance copings from digital dental impressions/models, forexample. Another advantage of one or more features as disclosed caninclude the ability to identify and track guidance/reduction copingswhich can help in high production environments, for example. Anotheradvantage of one or more features can include making the reductioncoping easier to handle, for example. Another advantage of one or morefeatures of the present disclosure can include, for example, a moreaccurate reduction coping that evaluates and accounts for reductionareas due to insufficient occlusal clearance and path of insertionclearance. Another advantage of one or more features of the presentdisclosure can include, for example, generating a virtualguidance/reduction coping directly from digital models produced byintraoral scans and/or scans of physical impressions. This can, forexample, advantageously allow generating a virtual guidance/reductioncoping without a stone model. This can also, for example, advantageouslyeliminate the step of having to physically print the model or requiringa stone model to thermoform or wax the coping. Another advantage caninclude, for example, allowing a technician to adjust a distribution ofthe reduction amount between the virtual opposing tooth and a virtualpreparation tooth. Another advantage of one or more features of thepresent disclosure can include, for example, providing a 3D printablevirtual reduction coping and optional handle and optional identifierthat can be integrally connected using the same material.

One or more of the features disclosed herein can be performed and/orattained automatically, without manual or user intervention. One or moreof the features disclosed herein can be performed by acomputer-implemented method. The features—including but not limited toany methods and systems—disclosed may be implemented in computingsystems. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 16, the computingenvironment 14042 used to perform these functions can be any of avariety of computing devices (e.g., desktop computer, laptop computer,server computer, tablet computer, gaming system, mobile device,programmable automation controller, video card, etc.) that can beincorporated into a computing system comprising one or more computingdevices. In some embodiments, the computing system may be a cloud-basedcomputing system.

For example, a computing environment 14042 may include one or moreprocessing units 14030 and memory 14032. The processing units executecomputer-executable instructions. A processing unit 14030 can be acentral processing unit (CPU), a processor in an application-specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), or any other type of processor. In someembodiments, the one or more processing units 14030 can execute multiplecomputer-executable instructions in parallel, for example. In amulti-processing system, multiple processing units executecomputer-executable instructions to increase processing power. Forexample, a representative computing environment may include a centralprocessing unit as well as a graphics processing unit or co-processingunit. The tangible memory 14032 may be volatile memory (e.g., registers,cache, RAM), non-volatile memory (e.g., ROM, EEPROM, flash memory,etc.), or some combination of the two, accessible by the processingunit(s). The memory stores software implementing one or more innovationsdescribed herein, in the form of computer-executable instructionssuitable for execution by the processing unit(s).

A computing system may have additional features. For example, in someembodiments, the computing environment includes storage 14034, one ormore input devices 14036, one or more output devices 14038, and one ormore communication connections 14037. An interconnection mechanism suchas a bus, controller, or network, interconnects the components of thecomputing environment. Typically, operating system software provides anoperating environment for other software executing in the computingenvironment, and coordinates activities of the components of thecomputing environment.

The tangible storage 14034 may be removable or non-removable andincludes magnetic or optical media such as magnetic disks, magnetictapes or cassettes, CD-ROMs, DVDs, or any other medium that can be usedto store information in a non-transitory way and can be accessed withinthe computing environment. The storage 14034 stores instructions for thesoftware implementing one or more innovations described herein.

The input device(s) may be, for example: a touch input device, such as akeyboard, mouse, pen, or trackball; a voice input device; a scanningdevice; any of various sensors; another device that provides input tothe computing environment; or combinations thereof. For video encoding,the input device(s) may be a camera, video card, TV tuner card, orsimilar device that accepts video input in analog or digital form, or aCD-ROM or CD-RW that reads video samples into the computing environment.The output device(s) may be a display, printer, speaker, CD-writer, oranother device that provides output from the computing environment.

The communication connection(s) enable communication over acommunication medium to another computing entity. The communicationmedium conveys information, such as computer-executable instructions,audio or video input or output, or other data in a modulated datasignal. A modulated data signal is a signal that has one or more of itscharacteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode informationin the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communicationmedia can use an electrical, optical, RF, or other carrier.

Any of the disclosed methods can be implemented as computer-executableinstructions stored on one or more computer-readable storage media 14034(e.g., one or more optical media discs, volatile memory components (suchas DRAM or SRAM), or nonvolatile memory components (such as flash memoryor hard drives)) and executed on a computer (e.g., any commerciallyavailable computer, including smart phones, other mobile devices thatinclude computing hardware, or programmable automation controllers)(e.g., the computer-executable instructions cause one or more processorsof a computer system to perform the method). The term computer-readablestorage media does not include communication connections, such assignals and carrier waves. Any of the computer-executable instructionsfor implementing the disclosed techniques as well as any data createdand used during implementation of the disclosed embodiments can bestored on one or more computer-readable storage media 14034. Thecomputer-executable instructions can be part of, for example, adedicated software application or a software application that isaccessed or downloaded via a web browser or other software application(such as a remote computing application). Such software can be executed,for example, on a single local computer (e.g., any suitable commerciallyavailable computer) or in a network environment (e.g., via the Internet,a wide-area network, a local-area network, a client-server network (suchas a cloud computing network), or other such network) using one or morenetwork computers.

For clarity, only certain selected aspects of the software-basedimplementations are described. Other details that are well known in theart are omitted. For example, it should be understood that the disclosedtechnology is not limited to any specific computer language or program.For instance, the disclosed technology can be implemented by softwarewritten in C++, Java, Perl, Python, JavaScript, Adobe Flash, or anyother suitable programming language. Likewise, the disclosed technologyis not limited to any particular computer or type of hardware. Certaindetails of suitable computers and hardware are well known and need notbe set forth in detail in this disclosure.

It should also be well understood that any functionality describedherein can be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logiccomponents, instead of software. For example, and without limitation,illustrative types of hardware logic components that can be used includeField-programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Program-specific IntegratedCircuits (ASICs), Program-specific Standard Products (ASSPs),System-on-a-chip systems (SOCs), Complex Programmable Logic Devices(CPLDs), etc.

Furthermore, any of the software-based embodiments (comprising, forexample, computer-executable instructions for causing a computer toperform any of the disclosed methods) can be uploaded, downloaded, orremotely accessed through a suitable communication means. Such suitablecommunication means include, for example, the Internet, the World WideWeb, an intranet, software applications, cable (including fiber opticcable), magnetic communications, electromagnetic communications(including RF, microwave, and infrared communications), electroniccommunications, or other such communication means.

In view of the many possible embodiments to which the principles of thedisclosure may be applied, it should be recognized that the illustratedembodiments are only examples and should not be taken as limiting thescope of the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented method of generating areduction coping, comprising: receiving a digital model generated froman intraoral scan of a patient's dentition, the digital model comprisinga virtual preparation tooth; determining one or more virtual reductionregions on the virtual preparation tooth; and generating a virtualreduction coping comprising one or more exposed regions corresponding tothe one or more virtual reduction regions.
 2. The method of claim 1,further comprising generating a virtual handle affixed to the virtualreduction coping.
 3. The method of claim 1, further comprisinggenerating a physical reduction coping and physical handle from thevirtual reduction coping and the virtual handle.
 4. The method of claim1, wherein the virtual handle comprises at least one identifier region.5. The method of claim 1, wherein determining one or more necessaryvirtual reduction regions comprises detecting an insufficient clearancebetween one or more surfaces of the virtual preparation tooth and one ormore other dental features.
 6. The method of claim 5, further comprisingdetecting an insufficient virtual occlusal clearance.
 7. The method ofclaim 6, wherein the detecting an insufficient virtual occlusalclearance comprises determining that a virtual occlusal clearancebetween one or more virtual preparation tooth occlusal surfaces and oneor more virtual opposing tooth occlusal surfaces is less than a minimumrequired occlusal clearance.
 8. The method of claim 6, wherein theminimum required occlusal clearance comprises a minimum restorationthickness.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the computer-implementedmethod determines the minimum restoration thickness automatically basedon a restoration type selected.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein theminimum required occlusal clearance further comprises an adhesivethickness.
 11. The method of claim 7, further comprising determining atotal virtual reduction amount necessary to satisfy the minimum requiredocclusal clearance.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the totalvirtual reduction amount is a difference between the virtual occlusalclearance and the minimum required occlusal clearance.
 13. The method ofclaim 12, further comprising displaying a GUI element to the user toallow adjusting a distribution of the total virtual reduction amountbetween a virtual preparation tooth reduction amount and a virtualopposing tooth reduction amount.
 14. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising determining a virtual margin around the virtual preparationtooth.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein determining one or morenecessary virtual reduction regions comprises detecting an insufficientpath of insertion between one or more side surface regions of thevirtual preparation tooth and the virtual margin boundary.
 16. Themethod of claim 15, wherein the virtual preparation tooth side surfaceregions to reduce are part of the virtual preparation tooth reductionregions.
 17. The method of claim 1, further comprising virtuallyreducing the virtual preparation tooth reduction regions by a virtualpreparation tooth reduction amount and virtually reducing the virtualpreparation tooth side surface regions by a virtual preparation toothside surface reduction amount.
 18. A method of generating a physicalreduction coping, comprising: receiving a 3D digital model generatedfrom an intraoral scan of a patient's dentition, the digital model of avirtual reduction coping; and performing additive manufacturing togenerate a physical reduction coping from the virtual reduction coping.19. The method of claim 18, wherein performing additive manufacturingcomprises 3D printing the physical reduction coping.
 20. The method ofclaim 18, wherein the physical reduction coping comprises an integratedphysical handle.
 21. The method of claim 18, wherein the integratedphysical handle comprises an identifier.
 22. The method of claim 18,wherein the physical reduction coping comprises one or more exposedregions corresponding to one or more virtual preparation tooth reductionregions.